ALS drug edaravone shows promise in slowing disease progression

NCT ID NCT00424463

Completed Disease control Sponsor: Shionogi Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jul 22, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study tested the drug edaravone (MCI-186) in 181 people with ALS, a progressive nerve disease. Participants received either edaravone or a placebo through IV infusions over 24 weeks. The goal was to see if edaravone could slow the decline in physical function. Results suggested a modest benefit in some patients, but the effect was not large and the drug requires ongoing treatment.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Edaravone (also known as MCI-186 or Radicut)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could confirm edaravone as a treatment that slows the progression of ALS, helping patients maintain function longer.
What could go wrong: This is a completed Phase 3 trial, but results may not apply to all ALS patients. The benefit was modest and only seen in a specific subgroup. Edaravone requires regular IV infusions and may cause side effects like bruising or allergic reactions.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

AMYOTROPHIC LATERAL SCLEROSIS (ALS)

Contacts and locations

Locations

National Hospital Organization Miyagi National Hospital

Watari-gun, Miyagi, Japan

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